In the world of 20th-century French regional knives, the Pradel stands out as the sole blade named in honor of its inventor, Mr. Etienne Pradel. This knife became so renowned in the late 1900s that it became synonymous with a particular category of knives, a renowned brand, and an illustrious manufacturer. The origins of the Pradel knife can be traced back to the coastal regions of Normandy and Brittany, where it was first produced for the hands of skilled sailors and farm laborers as a simple and practical tool.
Crafted in 1867 by the expert hands of Etienne Pradel, the blade’s namesake, this renowned knife draws inspiration from well-known English cutlery (particularly those from Sheffield) and boasts a unique spear point design.
Consider this: This knife was entirely handmade in Europe’s capital of cutlery “Thiers.” The “Gilles®” Fontenille Pataud collection of knives are considered by many to be some of the best pocket knives money can buy. All Knives offered by Gilles are entirely made by a single craftsman from start to finish ensuring pride in ownership of the final piece.